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Topic: Most Economic Linear Actuation? (Read 941 times)

In my opinion, one of the most important parts of a robot is the ability to reach out and do something. Sure, that could be done with a robotic arm, but I think that would seriously over complicate an otherwise fairly simple task. I want to learn how to cheaply make a pole that extends straight out. All the linear actuators I see online cost around $100 and are capable of much more powerful feats than most people need. I want to find a way to create an extending pole (I wouldn't call it an arm) with a stroke of about 1 foot and material cost of about $15. Does anyone have any idea how to get started? Am I being too optimistic with my goals?

Yes, plus one for screwing For simple apps. a length of cheap threaded rod can be used with regular nuts, however, the thread is not shaped for load bearing, so for powering up, the screw from a scissor car jack is a much better choice - Just look around and you'll find usable screws in different sizes.

An alternative could be a folded arm swinging open by a servo or similar.

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Regards,Søren

A rather fast and fairly heavy robot with quite large wheels needs what? A lot of power?Please remember...Engineering is based on numbers - not adjectives